Sydney girls school bans hit TV show

A very surprising letter is currently doing online rounds
- by
New Idea

19 May
2017

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A top Sydney girls’ school has advised parents to ban their children from watching the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why.

In a letter emailed to parents at Wenona School in North Sydney, the school’s Dean of Students Beth Oakley asks them to discuss the hit show’s suicidal-related content with students.

The series focuses on a school girl named Hannah who explains why she has taken her own life.

The letter explains the show’s traumatic nature and urges parents to openly discuss its controversial topics.

Ms Oakley writes, 'The show has also captured the attention of many of our young people.’

'While many viewers may be able to process the story, recognising that Hannah makes poor choices, vulnerable young people may be placed at further risk by being exposed to the series, without adequate adult support.’

It reads on, 'Dr Claire Kelly, MHFA Australia Youth Programs Manager says, ''Telling young people they shouldn't watch it may reinforce the idea that suicide shouldn't be discussed.

'Instead, it's important for the adults around them to be ready to talk to them about the content, and about what they should do if they or one of their friends needs help.''